30
12 Using the Signal Generator Using the locator in Power and Radio modes will only allow you to locate and mark the position of buried services that are producing a Power signal or re-radiating a Radio signal. Use of the Signal Generator should enable most, if not all, of the remaining buried metallic services to be detected and traced. This section explains the various ways in which the Signal Generator can be used. It also shows how to use those accessories that allow the Signal Generator to be directly connected to specific services. Direct Connection - Physically connecting the Signal Generator to a service is the most effective way to transfer the signal onto that service and the best way to trace the route of that service. Signal Clamp - The Signal Clamp is an accessory that allows the Signal Generator signal to be applied to a specific cable without having to make electrical contact with that cable. Although the Signal Clamp is not physically fixed to the cable we still consider it as a Connection method because it is using the Signal Generator in Connection mode. Signal Injector - The Signal Injector is an accessory that allows the Signal Generator signal to be safely applied to an electrical system via a conventional 3-pin power socket. This signal will then be detectable on the buried supply cable outside the building. Induction - Induction is a method of applying a signal to a service to which there is no direct access. NOTE The locator should always be handled and operated according to the instructions shown in the ‘Using the Locator’ section unless specifically shown otherwise in this section.

Using the Signal Generator - wictg.co.uk · PDF fileUsing the Signal Generator: Direct Connection The direct connection leads and earth stake that are supplied with the Signal Generator

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12

Using the Signal Generator

Using the locator in Power and Radio modes will only allow you to locate and mark the position of buried services thatare producing a Power signal or re-radiating a Radio signal.

Use of the Signal Generator should enable most, if not all, of the remaining buried metallic services to be detected andtraced.

This section explains the various ways in which the Signal Generator can be used.

It also shows how to use those accessories that allow the Signal Generator to be directly connected to specific services.

Direct Connection - Physically connecting the Signal Generator to a service is the most effective way to transfer the signal onto that service and the best way to trace the route of that service.

Signal Clamp - The Signal Clamp is an accessory that allows the Signal Generator signal to be applied to a specific cable without having to make electrical contact with that cable. Although the Signal Clamp is not physically fixed to the cablewe still consider it as a Connection method because it is using the Signal Generator in Connection mode.

Signal Injector - The Signal Injector is an accessory that allows the Signal Generator signal to be safely applied to anelectrical system via a conventional 3-pin power socket. This signal will then be detectable on the buried supply cableoutside the building.

Induction - Induction is a method of applying a signal to a service to which there is no direct access.

NOTE The locator should always be handled and operated according to the instructions shown in the‘Using the Locator’ section unless specifically shown otherwise in this section.

Using the Signal Generator: Batteries

Battery CheckSwitch the Signal Generator on by pressing the On/Off switch. The Signal Generator should emit a loud continuous tone.If the batteries need replacing an interrupted tone will be heard.

During use, the Signal Generator will also warn the locator user of low battery status by altering its normal continuous or pulsed signal output to a distinct interrupted signal output.

SGV onlyCheck the battery level indicator in the bottom left hand corner of the display. If there is only one segment or no segments of the indicator filled in then the batteries will need to be renewedbefore locating work can begin.

Changing the Batteries Remove the accessory tray. Undo the two round knurled retaining screws situated on the underside of the Signal Generator holding the battery cover. Remove ALL FOUR used batteries and replace with new ones. Be careful to insert the new batteries the correct way round in the compartment as indicated on the case. Replace the battery cover being careful to not over tighten the retaining screws. Replace the accessory tray.

WARNING Do not change batteries in confined spaces where gas may be present.

NOTE Dispose of the used batteries safely in accordance with local regulations.

NOTE Only use alkaline D (LR20) size batteries

SGV only

13

Using the Signal Generator: Direct Connection

The direct connection leads and earth stake that are supplied with the Signal Generatorare used to apply a signal to any metal pipe at a suitable access point such as a valve,hydrant point, stop cock or exposed pipe length.

1. Plug the direct connection leads into the Signal Generator connection socket.

2. Attach the red lead to the pipe at your point of access using the crocodile clip. Ensure that you have a secure and clean grip on the pipe with the crocodile clip.

3. Turn the Signal Generator on.

WARNING Never connect directly to electrical services.

WARNING You may need to seek permission from the service owners before connecting on to some buried services.

NOTE The type of metal that the pipe is constructed from or it’s use will have little effect on its traceability.

NOTE If it is not possible to get the crocodile clip to grip the pipe then use the magnet on the back of the clip.

1. 2.

14

Using the Signal Generator: Direct Connection

4. Place the Earth Stake in the ground (having first searched the areafor buried cables with the locator).

The ideal position for the Earth Stake is at right angles to theassumed line of the pipe and the full length of the direct connectionleads away from the pipe access point.

5. Connect the black earth lead to the Earth Stake (or the alternativeearth point). If your earth point is too far away from the pipe accesspoint for the black earth lead to reach then use the yellow 10 metreauxiliary earth lead instead.

6. As the earth lead is connected to the earth stake the audible signal from the Signal Generator should change in tone. The greater the change in tone, then the better the signal will be on the metal pipe.

If there is no change of tone at all it may be that some dirt, rust or paint on the pipe is preventing the direct connection lead frommaking a good contact with the pipe. Alternatively it may be that yourearth point is at fault. Change the position of the earth stake or use an alternative earth point.

NOTE If it is not possible to use the Earth Stake use a nearby metal fence post, manhole cover or gully cover. DONOT use something that may have another metallic service attached to it, such as a metal street lighting column.

NOTE If the Signal Generator tone does not change then there is no signal being transferred onto the service.

SG-V only

The SG-V Signal Generator will also give a visual representation of the quality of the connection in addition to the audibletone change. The greater the response on the display then the better the signal will be on the pipe.

15

Using the Signal Generator: Direct Connection

Direct Connection to a Street Lighting ColumnThe position and route of street lighting or car park lightingcables can be determined by using a Signal Generator and thepipe connection method.

Follow the same rules as for connecting the Signal Generatorto a metal pipe except attach the red direct connection lead tothe OUTSIDE of the lamp column.

WARNING NEVER open the lamp column door to gain access to the cables, this is dangerous and not necessary.

NOTE Make sure that the direct connection crocodile clip is not insulated from the metal of the column by paint.

NOTE If the column is concrete attach the crocodile clip to the metal surround of the access door.

16

Using the Signal Generator: Signal Clamp/ Injector

Signal Clamp1. Plug the Signal Clamp into the connection socket on the Signal Generator.

2. Turn the Signal Generator on.

3. Check that the jaws of the clamp are clean. Place the Signal Clamp AROUND the cablemaking sure that the jaws are able to fully close. The audible signal from the SignalGenerator should change in tone indicating that the clamp jaws have closed correctly.

WARNING NEVER attempt to place the Signal Clamp around electricity cables that are deliberately suspended out of reach. They may be unsheathed or unprotected cables.

NOTE The Signal Clamp cannot apply a signal to a cable that is not earthed at both ends such as abandonedcables that have been cut off where they appear above ground or small cables supplying unearthed equipment.

WARNING DO NOT use the Signal Injector on systems with voltages in excess of 240 volts AC. Domestic systemswill normally be below this voltage.

NOTE On two wire Protective Multiple Earth (PME) systems it may be necessary to also provide an external earth using the yellow 10 metre Auxiliary Earth Lead and Earth Stake.

NOTE Always check with the owners that it is acceptable to interrupt the supply before connecting the Signal Injector.

NOTE Using the Signal Injector may cause the system protection to trip.

Signal Injector1. Plug the Signal Injector into the connection socket on the Signal Generator and anelectric outlet.

2. Turn the Signal Generator on.

3. Turn the socket on. The audible tone from the Signal Generator will drop in pitch toindicate a successful connection.

17

Signal Generator: Searching for the Direct Connected Signal

The Search pattern used to find the Signal Generator signal whenapplied by a direct connection method (Direct Connection Leads,Signal Clamp or Signal Injector) is different to the normal search pattern used on Power or Radio Modes.

1. Move a few paces away from where the Signal Generator has beenconnected to the service. Turn the mode switch to Generator mode.Hold the locator so that the side of the locator is facing towards theSignal Generator.

2. Adjust the Sensitivity so that the locator is just showing a visualresponse and emitting an audible response.

3. If possible walk in a COMPLETE circle around the connection pointtrying to keep the same distance from this point at all times. When asignal is detected, ‘pinpoint’ that signal as shown in the ‘Using theLocator’ section.

4. Having pinpointed the first signal, do NOT readjust the Sensitivitycontrol but continue with the circle to see if any other signals aredetected. If more signals are detected compare the strength of eachsignal by observing the bar display. The strongest signal will usuallybe coming from the service that the Signal Generator is connected to.

18

Signal Generator: Tracing the Direct Connected Signal

The tracing technique used to follow the Signal Generator signal when applied by a direct connection method (DirectConnection Leads, Signal Clamp or Signal Injector) is almostexactly the same as the normal tracing technique used onPower or Radio Modes but with the following differences:

The signal that the locator is detecting will get weaker the further away from the Signal Generator that you go. It will benecessary to regularly adjust (increase) the locator sensitivity to compensate for this.

NOTE It is not possible to search for the signal above any leads connecting the Signal Generator to the service orabove the Earth Lead connected to the Earth Stake.

19

Signal Generator: Induction

This is the standard method for inducing signals onto buried metallicservices. It produces a strong signal directly below the SignalGenerator but the signal strength drops off quite quickly either side of the Signal Generator.

1. Check that there are no accessories plugged into the ConnectionSocket. The Signal Generator switches automatically to InductionMode when the socket is clear.

2. Place the Signal Generator UPRIGHT on the ground where you suspect there may be some services buried. Make sure the SignalGenerator is IN LINE with the expected route of these services.

3. Turn the Signal Generator on and check that the batteries are OK.

4. The signal will be radiated into the ground immediately below andfor approximately 3 metres either side of the Signal Generator.

NOTE The closer the Signal Generator is to the position of the buried service then the stronger the signal will beon that service.

20

Signal Generator: Searching for an Induced Signal

The search pattern used to find the Signal Generator signal when applied by Induction is slightly different to the search pattern used on the Power or Radio Modes or with the SignalGenerator on the Direct Connection mode.

1. Move AT LEAST 10 metres away from the Signal Generator position with your locator. This is to avoid the locator picking up the airborne signal rather than the signal induced onto theburied service.

2. Stand so that you are roughly in line with the end of the Signal Generator and hold the locator so that the side of thelocator is facing towards the end of the Signal Generator.

3. Adjust the Sensitivity so that the locator is just showing a visual response and emitting an audible response.

NOTE A Signal Generator will transmit a significant amount of signal into the air as well as into the ground.

NOTE Make sure you keep the locator upright at all times to avoid the risk of picking up the airborne signal.

21

Signal Generator: Searching for an Induced Signal

4. Walk in a straight line across the end line of the SignalGenerator. When a signal is detected ‘pinpoint’ that signal as shown in the ‘Using the Locator’ section. If no signal is found move the Signal Generator 5 metres and try again. Continue thisprocedure moving the Signal Generator in 5 metre steps, followinga grid pattern, until a signal can be found.

5. It may be possible to increase the strength of the induced signal on the buried service by improving the positioning of the SignalGenerator. Once the buried service has been pinpointed then bymoving the position of the Signal Generator slightly either side anincrease or decrease in the locator response will be noticed.Remember the closer the Signal Generator is to the position of theburied service then the stronger the signal will be on that service.

NOTE The Generator signal that the locator is detecting will get weaker the further away from the SignalGenerator that you go. It will be necessary to regularly adjust (increase) the Sensitivity to compensate for this.

22

Signal Generator: Induction Multiple Services

It is important to check for the presence of adjacent services running close, orparallel, to the conductor you have located.

1. Check that there are no accessories plugged into the connection socket.

2. Turn the Signal generator on and check that the batteries are OK.

3. Place the Signal generator on the ground ON ITS SIDE over the previously located service so that you are no longer inducing a strong signal onto the service.

4. Re-scan the area looking for another peak close to where the original peak wasfound. This operation should be repeated until you are satisfied that no furtherservices can be located.

NOTE This method can also be used to ‘mask’ one service so that another can be found.

NOTE The signal will be radiated up to 3 metres either side of the Signal generator but NOT directly below.

Limitations of Induction Method - There are limitations concerning what can be achieved when using a Signal Generatoron the Induction mode compared to the Connected mode.

It is not normally possible to identify what the service is that has been detected with an induced signal. If the signal canbe followed far enough, a visible feature such as a valve cover or cable pit cover will be found that can indicate the services identity.

Cables with a very small cross section may not have enough signal induced onto them to make them detectable. It isoften not possible to apply an induced signal onto just ONE specific buried service, in order to trace that service alone,when that service is positioned close to other services.

NOTE An induced signal cannot be applied to a buried service that lies beneath reinforced concrete. The reinforcingbars will re-radiate the induced signal masking any signal that has been induced onto the buried service below.

23

Signal Generator: Using an Inductive Sweep

If a large area needs to be searched for buried services then an ‘Inductive Sweep’ could be used. It is an ideal method for detecting the position of buried services as they cross the boundary of a large site.

An Inductive Sweep requires two people; one to operate the locator and one to position the Signal Generator.

1. Stand about 10 metres apart.

2. The first person holds the Signal Generator, switched on, close to theground and ‘end on’ whilst you hold the locator.

3. Adjust the Sensitivity so that the locator is just showing a visual response and emitting an audible response.

4. In unison, slowly walk across the site, staying the same distance apart and being careful to keep in line with each other. When the SignalGenerator gets close to a buried metallic service the signal will be induced onto it and you should see this in the increased visual response on the locator.

5. Immediately tell your colleague to stop and place the Signal Generator on the ground at that point. Now you can pinpoint the service and trace outits route. Continue the sweep across the length and width of search area.

24

Non-Metallic Pipe Tracing

Non-metallic pipes such as sewers or drains, service ducts, plastic gas and water pipes are not electrically conductiveand so will not be detectable using a locator on the Power or Radio modes. It is also impossible to apply a detectableSignal Generator signal to the non-metallic pipe or, for that matter, to the water or gas within that pipe.

If access can be gained into these pipes then a C.Scope Sonde or Plastic Pipe Tracer should make it possible to determine their position and route.

SondeThe C.Scope Sonde is a small battery powered, waterproof transmitter that can be inserted into a pipe, such as a sewer or drain. Its position can be pinpointed (and therefore the location of the pipe pinpointed) by using the Locator switched to Generator mode.

The Sonde can be used in pipes as small as 50mm in diameter and up to 5 metres deep.

It will NOT transmit a signal through a metal pipe.

The Sonde does not send a signal ALONG the pipe but does transmit a distinct signal that the locator will detect.

It is inserted into and then moved along the pipe to the point at which the pipe needs to be located. This is done by attaching the Sonde to drain rods using the rod connector supplied with the Sonde or by other means such as attaching to a jetter hose or drain camera system.

NOTE The sonde is supplied with a standard drain rod adaptor. Other adaptors eg, lockfast are available. Contact your supplier.

NOTE Only use alkaline AA (LR6) size battery. Dispose of the used battery safely in accordance with local regulations.

NOTE Always use a new battery in the Sonde if you expect to take a long time to trace the pipe route.

25

Non-Metallic Pipe Tracing: Sonde

The Sonde is powered by a single AA (LR6) size alkaline battery.

1. To turn the Sonde on, separate the two halves of the Sonde casing. Insertnew battery into the battery compartment with the positive end down.

2. Screw the two halves of the Sonde together being careful not to over tighten them. The Sonde is now transmitting a signal.

3. To turn the sonde off the battery must be removed.

PinpointingBefore inserting the Sonde into the pipe itself it is best to set up the locator such that the Sensitivity is already correctlyadjusted to suit the pipe depth.

1. The blade of the locator must be held IN LINE with the Sonde at all times.

2. Turn the locator to Generator mode and switch on. Check the battery level indicator to confirm the locator batteries are usable. Replace if necessary.

NOTE This is easier to do when the Sonde is visible at the bottom of the manhole rather than already in the pipe.

NOTE This is the opposite orientation to the way in which the locator is held for most other locating tasks.

+ -

26

Non-Metallic Pipe Tracing: Sonde

3. Keeping the blade of the locator in line with the Sonde, move the locator backwards and forwards over the length ofthe Sonde. Adjust the sensitivity until a clear peak response isshown on the bar display as the locator passes directly over the position of the Sonde.

4. Move the locator from side to side over the position of theSonde. A similar peak response should be seen on the displayas the locator passes directly over the position of the Sonde.

The locator is now set up ready for tracing the Sonde.

5. Push the Sonde up the pipe.

6. With the locator turned on, walk from the pipe access pointin the direction that the Sonde was pushed. A strong peak signal directly over the Sonde should be detected with two lesser “ghost” signals found either side of the Sonde’s trueposition. These ghost signals are always weaker than the mainsignal and should not be mistaken for the true Sonde signal.

7. Pinpoint the Sonde position by moving the locator back andforth and from side to side to get the peak response.

8. Push the Sonde further up the pipe and repeat the pinpointing process.

3. and 4.

6.

27

Non-Metallic Pipe Tracing: Plastic Pipe Tracer

Line TracingThe Plastic Pipe Tracers can be used in services up to 2metres deep and do not workthrough metal pipes or ducts.The Plastic Pipe Tracer needs to be inserted into the pipe before a signal from the SignalGenerator is applied to the length of the Tracer.

The Signal Generator signal is applied using the ‘Direct Connection to a metal pipe’method as shown in ‘Using the Signal Generator’. Only one lead is connected to thePlastic pipe tracer, the other is connected to an earth stake.

NOTE The Signal Generator signal is unlikely to travel the entire length of the Tracer within the pipe. Neverassume that you have located the end of the Tracer on Line Tracing mode. Use End Tracing if required.

WARNING Authorisation may be required before using the Plastic Pipe Tracer on some services.

28

NOTE It is important that a change of tone is heard when making the connections to ensure that there is adetectable signal present on the Tracer.

NOTE End tracing is the ideal method to use to determine where the end of the pipe is but does not give theroute of the pipe.

Non-Metallic Pipe Tracing: Plastic Pipe Tracer

End TracingThe very tip of the Plastic Pipe Tracer can be energised with the signal from a SignalGenerator. It is acting much like a Sonde and offers a very reliable way of pinpointing theposition of the tip.

The Signal Generator signal is applied by connecting the red Direct Connection lead toone of the terminals on the Tracer and the black Earth lead to the other terminal. As thesecond connection is made a change of tone should be heard from the Signal Generatorsignal indicating successful connection.

The tip of the Plastic Pipe Tracer is then pinpointed using the same technique as forSonde tracing with the locator blade in line with the Tracer.

29

Depth Measurement

The C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool XD can be used in conjunction with the Signal Generator orSonde to indicate the depth of a buried service.

Depth cannot be measured on the Power or Radio modes.

1. The Signal Generator must be set to “Continuous” Signal output, NOT pulsed output.

2. It is vital that the signal being measured is a GOOD QUALITY signal. This is best achieved byusing the Signal Generator in Connected mode rather than Induced mode.

3. Set the locator to Generator mode and pinpoint the position of the buried service. Makesure the locator is directly over the buried service and at right angles to it’s route. Rest thelocator on the ground with the body vertical.

WARNING The depth indication MUST NOT be used to decide if mechanical digging overthe buried service is appropriate.

WARNING If the following procedure for Depth Measurement is not followed then aninaccurate depth may be indicated. This is worse than having no depth information at all.

NOTE A poor quality signal is indicated by an unstable visual response on the locator. Depth measurement will beinaccurate in these circumstances.

WARNING If the pinpointing of the service is inaccurate then the depth measurement will be inaccurate.

30

4. Press and hold down the depth button. The depth will be shown on the display, measured in metres.

5. The depth should be verified by lifting up the locator whilst keeping thedepth button depressed. The depth indication should increase by the sameamount.

Limitations of Depth Measurement - There are some situations where it isnot possible to gain accurate depth information:

A curve or bend in the route of the service. Close to where the service changes in depth. Near to a “T” junction in the service. At the very end point of a service. At any point where the signal has coupled onto an adjacent service. Close to any large metallic objects such as metal fences or vehicles. Within 25 metres of the position of the Signal Generator if used onInduction mode. Under reinforced concrete. The signal is of poor quality. Too close to the Signal Generator or leads if used in Connected mode.

Depth Measurement

4.

NOTE The depth shown will be to the centre of the service and is not the depth of cover. This is of greater significance on large diameter pipes. Accuracy is to nearest 0.05m. Range is 0.2m to 3.0m.

31

Depth Measurement using Sonde/Plastic Pipe Tracer(end mode only)

1. Pinpoint the exact position of the Sonde as shown in the “Non-metallic Pipes”section. Take care to ensure that you are over the top of the Sonde and not overone of the two “ghost” signals in front of and behind the true position.

2. Rest the Locator on the ground, keeping it vertical and IN LINE with the Sonde.

3. Push the depth button TWICE and hold, on the second push, to select Sondemode. The word Sonde will flash on the display and the depth will then be displayed. If the word Sonde is not displayed then the depth reading will not be accurate.

Depth Measurement: Error ReadingsThe Cable Avoidance Tool XD may show the following error codes when a depthmeasurement has been attempted.

1. The service is too shallow (less than 0.20m deep) for the Locator to obtain an accurate depth. It should be possible to calculate the depth by raising the Locator a set amount and then carry-ing out the depth measurement again.

2. The service is too deep for the Locator to measure its depth.

3. The Signal Generator signal on the buried service is not strong enough for the Locator to give a reliable depth measurement. Increasing the Signal Generator output or repositioning the Signal Generator to give a stronger signal should solve the problem.

4. Overload. The signal is too strong for the Locator to give a reliable depth measurement. Reducing the SignalGenerator output to give a weaker signal should solve the problem

NOTE The depth shown is that of the sonde and NOT of the pipe.Accuracy is to the nearest 0.15m. Range is 0.8m to 5.0m.

3.

32

C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool: Function Checks

It is recommended that the operation of the C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool and SignalGenerator is checked before use.

Battery Condition - Check by depressing the On/Off switch beneath the handle. The display will show at least one solid segment if the batteries are ok. Ensure power on tone is heard.

Power Mode - Select Power Mode. Set Sensitivity fully clockwise and point the body ofthe C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool at a fluorescent light from a distance of 1m. Switch thelight on. A loud tone should be heard and the display should read greater than 50% fullscale. Reducing the sensitivity should cause the displayed reading to reduce and the toneto cut out.

Radio Mode - Select Radio Mode. Set the Sensitivity fully clockwise and, from a distanceof less than 0.25m, point the unit at a metal conductor of length greater than 100m (forexample a pipe or cable). A warbling tone should be heard. The display should readgreater than 50% full scale.

NOTE These tests may need to be carried out in more than one location or with more than one source to gain apositive signal.

33

C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool: Function Checks

Generator Mode - Locate an outdoor test area that is free from extraneous fields resulting from overhead and underground cables. The area should also not be nearfences, steel framed buildings, or on reinforced concrete as the signal will be reduced.Place the Signal Generator on the ground in the normal orientation and switch on - atone should be heard. Set to Continuous and ensure highest output power is selected.

With the C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool in the orientation shown, and Sensitivity rotatedfully clockwise, the results indicated should be obtained.

DISTANCE MODE AUDIO METER6metres Generator Present Full scale12metres Generator Less than at 6m Less than Full scale6metres Radio Present6metres Power None None

34

C.Scope Signal Generator: Function Checks

Battery Condition - Select Continuous. Good batteries will be shown by a loud clear audio tone. Bad batteries give aninterupted audio tone. On the SG-V the display will show at least one solid segment if the batteries are ok.

Induced Mode - This can only be checked in conjunction with a C.Scope Avoidance Tool as described on previous page. If the unit does not meet the results required, repeat the test with another C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool to determinewhether the Signal Generator is suspect.

Connected Mode - Set the minimum output level, insert the connection lead and the long earth lead and then connect the red lead to the long earth lead to create a short circuit. The pitch should change to a low tone. The leads should be arranged to create an open loop on the ground of approximately 1m diameter. Check that a signalcan be detected by the Cable Avoidance Tool (in Generator Mode) when pointed closely at the loop.

Depth Measurement (XD Model Only) - An area of services, metal structures, etc should be chosen (beware of reinforced car parks). A search with the C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool in all 3 modes will help confirm the absence of other services. An insulated cable or wire 20m+ (not supplied) is laid out on the ground surface and the far end connected to a ground stake and earthed. The near end is connected to the red Connected Mode lead.

NOTE These checks DO NOT guarantee full system performance. The Cable Avoidance Tool and Signal Generatorshould be returned to the manufacturer or an approved agent for recalibration every 12months.

NOTE If a deterioration in performance is suspected the equipment should not be used. It should be returned tothe manufacturer or an approved agent for checking.

35

Function Checks

The black ground Lead should be laid at right angles to the 20m wire and earthed at the far end with a ground stake. The plug should be inserted in the connector on theSignal Generator.

The Signal Generator is turned on with lowest power, and continuous mode selected. The C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool should then be held vertically above the longer wire,approximately midway along it, ie. 10m from the Signal Generator.

The depth can then be measured. It is best to make a few readings at different depths.(Beware - metal step ladders affect the accuracy!)

36

Maintenance

Handling - The C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool and Signal Generator are rugged instruments designed for the rigours ofevery day use. However, to ensure that the specified accuracy is maintained, it is essential to treat the instruments withcare by avoiding shocks, vibration and excesses of temperature.

The construction of the C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool and Signal Generator incorporate weather proof seals, however,they are not guaranteed to prevent water ingress if the units are immersed.

Cleaning - If required the equipment can be cleaned with a sponge dampened with warm water. A mild soap may be usedif required. The use of solvents should be avoided.

Do not allow moisture in the battery compartments or near the connectors.

Storage - The equipment should be stored in a clean, dry place. The temperature should not exceed the range -10˚C to+50˚C. If stored for long periods the batteries should be removed.

37

Cable Avoidance Tool: Technical Specifications

Controls:On/Off switch, spring loaded trigger switch under handle.Function select switch.

3 positions: P – Power modeR – Radio ModeG – Generator Mode

Sensitivity ControlDepth Switch (XD model only)

Indications:Audio

Removable and user replaceable loudspeaker.

Visual.Multisegment LCD giving indications of the following:

Signal strengthModeBattery ConditionDepth (XD model only)

Performance:Mode Sensitivity Depth of Detection Filter Bandwidth

on typical conductorPower 7mA 3m 50-500HzRadio 12µA 2m 10-30kHzGenerator 2µA 5m 32.1-33.4kHz

Response Width – 5% of depth

Location Accuracy – 10% of depth

Depth Measurement (XD Only):G Mode only

Range: 0.2m to 3m (line), 0.85m to 4.5m (sonde)

Accuracy: ± 5% @ 1m

Construction:Case moulded from high impact plastic, sealed to IP65Weight: 2.9kg (including batteries)Size: 720mm x 270mm x 63mmDesigned to withstand 1metre drop onto a hard surface.

Power source:Internal 8 “AA” (LR6) cells (alkaline recommended).Battery life 40Hrs intermittent use at 20°C.

Note: Performance figures stated can be affected by site conditions suchas soil type, moisture, temperature, and unusually strong electromagneticfields.

The Cable Avoidance Tool and Cable Avoidance Tool XD are in compliancewith the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of CouncilDirective 89/336/EEC. Compliance has been demonstrated by testing representative samples to the relevant harmonised standards.

38

Signal Generator: Technical Specifications

Controls:All operation is by push button control as follows:

On/Off.Power Decrease (SGV) or Low Power (SGA).Power Increase (SGV) or High Power (SGA).Pulse / Continuous (toggle).Audio Mute (toggle).

Connections:Connection Mode Socket.Separate Connection Mode Earth Socket.

Indications:Audio feedback on button press.Audio frequency drops with increasing load current in connected modeto indicate a good connection. Audio frequency on Induced mode changes with power level setting.Audio output pulses to indicate Pulse Mode.Low batteries indicated by interrupted audio and output signal.

Display (SG-V Only):Multisegment LCD indicating the following:

FrequencyPulse ModeContinuous ModeOutput LevelBattery ConditionOutput Current (Bargraph)Speaker Mute

Output:Carrier Frequency 32768 ± 5 Hz.Carrier Pulse Frequency 7.5 Hz (Audio 3.75 Hz).Connected Mode:Maximum (open circuit) output voltage – 20 V rms.Maximum (short circuit) output current – 18mA rms. Maximum power 320mW into 1kΩ load.Connection mode is automatically selected when lead is plugged intosocket.

Induction Mode:Maximum field strength at 10m – 40 dB_µA/mMaximum power output into a single turn close coupled - 465 mW (0.22Ωload, 0.32V rms).

Construction:Injection moulded high impact plastic case sealed to IP65.Incorporates a clip-on accessory compartment.Size: 360 x 180 x 230 mm (L x W x H) with accessory compartment.360 x 180 x 170 mm without accessory compartment.Weight – 3.4 Kg with batteries and standard accessories.Designed to withstand a 1 metre drop onto a hard surface.

Power source:Internal 4 “D” (LR20) cells (alkaline recommended).Battery life minimum 40Hrs intermittent use at 20°C.

Both the SG-A and the SG-V are in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Council Directive1999/5/EC. Compliance has been demonstrated by testing representativesamples to the harmonised standards EN300-330 and EN301-489. Theessential radio test suites have been carried out and the equipment is inconformity with all applicable directives.

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Support Services: Training/Servicing/Repairs

Training - This manual is comprehensive but cannot replace tuition. C.Scope offersexcellent training, cost effectively, at your chosen location. C.Scope always recommendoperators are trained and awarded a certificate of competence in the use of pipe andcable locators.

Servicing - It is strongly recommended that the C.Scope Cable Avoidance Tool andSignal Generator System are serviced at least once a year by an Authorised ServiceCentre to ensure performance to specification. Contact your supplier for information.The date the next service is due is marked on the equipment.

Repairs - Before returning equipment suspected of being faulty, please check themachine carefully with a fresh set of batteries. Check the battery connections and rotatethe batteries in the holder. Refer to the section on functional checks and if possible substitute known good equipment as a confirmation.

If the problem persists then contact the company from whom you purchased the equipment, OR contact C.Scope stating the date and place of purchase and indicatingbriefly the nature of the fault. Advice on the best course of action can then be given.

Routine servicing and re-calibration of your equipment is available from C.Scope andAuthorised Service Centres. Please apply for details of our service plans.

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C.Scope International LtdKingsnorth Technology ParkWotton RoadAshfordKent TN23 6LN

t. 01233 629181f. 01233 645897e. [email protected]. www.cscope.co.uk

Part no. B1069 01/05